In an urgent press conference held at A.P. Bhavan in Delhi today, global humanitarian and peace activist Dr. K.A. Paul called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately seek the resignation of Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu for 17 reasons, citing the minister’s lack of experience and growing global concern following the tragic Air India Flight 171 crash, which killed nearly 300 people.
Addressing the media, Dr. Paul questioned the appointment of a 37-year-old minister without an aviation background to such a critical portfolio.
“I’m calling for the resignation of Civil Aviation Minister Mr. Ram Mohan Naidu. He is a young 37-year-old man, doesn’t have any aviation experience. Running aviation is complicated — I’ve owned my own aircraft since 1991,” Dr. Paul stated.
The crash, which claimed 169 Indian lives, along with 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese citizens, 1 Canadian, and many student doctors, was cited by Dr. Paul as a global embarrassment that requires urgent leadership accountability.
“The Air India crash not only killed our 169 precious Indians but also 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian. To save India’s image globally, he must resign,” he added.
In addition to domestic concerns, Dr. Paul — a former state guest of both countries — addressed the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, calling for immediate diplomatic efforts to avoid a wider global conflict.
“I’m requesting Prime Minister Netanyahu to stop attacking nuclear sites in Iran… and requesting Iranian leadership not to retaliate and create this as World War III. We don’t want wars — 56 wars are enough,” he said, adding that these wars have already cost tens of millions of lives and trillions of dollars.
Dr. Paul, who has previously served as a state guest in Iran and delivered humanitarian aid in the region, warned of the global ramifications of continued aggression, especially given the alliances involved on both sides.